Presidential children have been studied individually, and as a class. As individuals, they are more often notable in their own right than most individuals: They disproportionately circulate amongst political and social leaders and the wealthier classes, and they are more likely to be scrutinized as part of celebrity culture. Additionally, as individuals they frequently have significant influence on other notable family members. So, for instance, a child who may appear otherwise non-notable as an individual may, in fact, have had a significant influence on the child's parent: acting as a sounding board, or having behavioral issues that affected the parent's beliefs or performance.

As a class, the children of presidents have also occasioned significant study. Study has generally followed two paths: The issue of what access and inclusion within the circles of power does to individuals' lives, aspirations, and outcomes;[1] and the issue of their influence on society and politics.[2]

Illegitimate. Cleveland made payments to Maria Halpin after the boy was born.[10]

Grover Cleveland acknowledged possibility he was Oscar Folsom Cleveland's father.[10]
During the 1884 presidential race the controversy prompted Cleveland's opponents to adopt the chant, "Ma, ma, where's my pa?"[11][12]
The child was adopted as "James E. King Jr" into the family of Dr. James King.[9][12][13]